Intake Specialist - Full Time - Mercy STL - Evenings

Provides mental health and substance abuse assessments for patients presenting to the emergency department, Intake department or other areas of the hospital; pre-certification of insurance, crisis intervention and referral to community resources. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, Mercy Service Standards and NASW Code of Ethics.

About the Role

The Intake Specialist serves as a key resource for patients, families, providers, and community partners by conducting mental health and substance use assessments, facilitating admissions and referrals, coordinating care, and providing crisis intervention services. This role works closely with clinical teams to ensure patients receive timely access to appropriate behavioral health services while upholding Mercy's mission, values, service standards, and professional ethical standards.

Responsibilities

• Assessment & Crisis Intervention
  • Conduct mental health and substance use assessments for patients presenting to the Emergency Department, Intake Department, and other hospital settings.
  • Provide crisis intervention and support for patients and families experiencing behavioral health emergencies.
  • Evaluate patient needs and connect individuals with appropriate internal services and community resources.
  • Follow up with high-risk individuals and families, as appropriate, to support continuity of care.
• Care Coordination
  • Coordinate assessments, admissions, and transfers by communicating clinical and financial information with treatment teams, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
  • Facilitate referrals to appropriate behavioral health programs and community-based resources.
  • Collaborate with internal departments and external agencies to ensure smooth transitions of care.
  • Obtain and verify insurance information, including pre-certification requirements when applicable.
• Patient & Family Support
  • Provide education and support to patients and families regarding treatment recommendations, available resources, and referral options.
  • Communicate with patients and families in a timely and compassionate manner to identify and address needs.
  • Encourage engagement with recommended services and treatment plans.
• Documentation & Compliance
  • Accurately document assessments, referrals, patient information, insurance details, and outcomes.
  • Enter required information into departmental databases and electronic medical record systems in a timely manner.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with all regulatory and patient rights requirements.
  • Adhere to infection prevention, safety, and risk management policies and procedures.
• Community & Resource Management
  • Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations and referral partners.
  • Maintain current referral resource information, including program availability, contact information, and insurance acceptance.
  • Assist callers in navigating behavioral health resources and accessing appropriate services.

Requirements

• Required Education: Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or another related mental health field.
• Required Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of behavioral health experience.
• Preferred Licensure: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

Skills

• Strong assessment, crisis intervention, and care coordination skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Ability to effectively manage complex situations and make independent decisions.
• Working knowledge of behavioral health disorders, treatment programs, insurance processes, and community resources.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with electronic documentation systems and basic computer applications.

Schedule

3:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Evening Shift)

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid time off.
• Tuition support.
• Matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.